The Slovakian government will take over operations of the 720MW Gabcikovo hydro plant from a local unit of Enel, and has signalled its intent to seek millions of Euros in compensation, after a court ruled that an operations contract at the plant was invalid.
The plant has been at the centre of a dispute between the government and the Enel unit since 2007. Yesterday, a regional court invalidated a contract to operate the plant awarded to utility Slovenske Elektrarne - which is majority owned by Enel.
Slovakia has now said it is to seek back payments which could amount to Eur 320 million. This compensation is from payments made to the Enel unit by the plant.
According to newswire reports, Enel is likely to appeal the courts decision once it has looked fully at the courts decision.
The company is currently looking to sell its stake in Slovenske Elektrarne, a move which is expected to be unaffected by the courts ruling.
